"With a WHOOSH, immediately followed by a horrific KABOOM! the gas station exploded with an incredible force that obliterated the station completely! Back at headquarters, the men had heard and felt the explosion, and Engine Company #1 and the Truck Company were already en route..."

Hometown Heroes is a fascinating historical account of Auburn, New York's Fire Department. Auburn's fire service began in the early 1800s with volunteer companies and evolved to a career department in 1894. Readers will be amazed at the advancements and 'firsts' within the department. Then, and now, firefighter sacrifices and selfless acts of bravery have been witnessed by fellow firefighters and the community as a whole. Auburnians are sure to remember a story or two and will pause to grieve, reflect and also celebrate many events that are called to mind. Readers will enjoy this 'laying of hose' which documents the past and present members of the Auburn Fire Department; our hometown heroes.